Philosophy

Quality child care and education depend on caregiving in a friendly, loving atmosphere. Children learn and grow best in a warm, safe, nurturing environment where they are encouraged both individually and in groups to experiment and make discoveries. Our center places children by age and developmental needs. These groups function independently but cooperatively, following routines appropriate to the development of each child.

Learning occurs in a variety of ways, both planned and spontaneous. The center’s program is designed to incorporate many possibilities. We encourage children to make choices and to discuss the activities in which they have participated.

There are opportunities for age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play, storytime, and routines of physical caregiving, health, and competence. Experiences with music & movement, athletics, swimming, arts & crafts, and language and social development are abundant.

The Early Learning Center provides an environment in which children and their families feel at home and comfortable. An integral part of our philosophy is that we work in partnership with families so that we support their needs, child-rearing practices, and family values. Our program is based on practices supported by research in Early Childhood Education. Children learn by doing. We have created an environment and curriculum that is developmentally appropriate, supports children’s individuality, provides space, materials, and activities through which we guide children’s learning.

Children are engaged in experiences that promote self-worth, self-esteem, and self-confidence while learning to be responsible for themselves and their actions. They are taught to cooperate with their teachers and peers while understanding their feelings and learning to express those feelings appropriately. Children grow and feel secure while learning about the world around them.